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Thirty-three years ago, President Ronald Regan declared that the first Thursday of February would be National Girls and Women in Sports Day. Since the inception of this day, institutions and organizations across the nation have celebrated this day and the progress that women have made in the world of sports.

Today, the women in the Department of Athletics at Hampton University have celebrated by reflecting on the importance of this movement.

"I celebrate this day because sports was my vehicle to obtaining a higher education, and entering a very rewarding career in sports," said Director for Athletic Academic Support Services/ Life Skills, Dr. Genese A. Lavalais.

Student-athletes at Hampton University also showed their appreciation for this day by hosting a fun day for the children at the Hampton University Child Development Center.

Harry Freeman, a graduate assistant for the athletic academic support center, shares the importance of celebrating this day with the future women in sports. "Although the celebration of women in sports is not limited to only this day, this experience allowed the members of various Lady Pirate teams to give back, teach, and celebrate with future students who expressed their desire to play sports."

Ces'Shay Joyner, a junior Health Science major, and a member of the Women's Track team at Hampton University said she was excited to be a part of this event, and even more excited to witness young girls already empowered and influenced by sports.

The children played several games that promoted sportsmanship and fun. At the end of the event, the young girls asked to take a photo and yelled, "Girl Power."

Happy National Girls and Women in Sports Day!